At the Intel Developer Forum Fall 2006 Intel Corp. has showcased a prototype of a mobile computer designed for developing countries. The new computers are expected to cost approximately $250 - $400 and allow students to perform simple education-related tasks.

The low-cost “Classmate PC” laptop will be based on Intel Celeron M central processing unit, Intel 915GMS core-logic, will feature 256MB of DDR2 memory and will be equipped with 1GB of NAND flash memory, which will substitute hard disk drive. The device will be equipped with 7” display with 800x480 resolution and will use Windows XP for embedded applications operating system, according to a news-story at DigiTimes web-site.

Classmate PC. Click to enlarge

Eduwise is specifically designed to provide affordable, collaborative learning environments for teachers and young students. With students using the Eduwise notebook in class, a teacher can make presentations, control what a student has access to, and interact individually with each student in giving tests or providing feedback. The Intel-developed education application integrates with other non-computing learning tasks such as note taking and handwriting with wireless pen attachments. Because it is a fully featured PC, the Eduwise design can accommodate other standard software and tools for additional needs and uses.

Intel indicated during IDF that its World Ahead program – aimed at making PCs access more affordable to citizens – is to date launched in 30 countries around the world. The program is trainin teachers as well as distributing distributing prototype of the education PCs among some schools in Africa and other countries.

The prototype known as Classmate PC and it is going to be out in the first quarter of next year. Final specifications and pricing may vary.

The Eduwise is a yet another low-cost PC project, such as Advanced Micro Devices’ Personal Internet Communicator and Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s One Laptop Per Child program.